Home Garden

How to Improve Air Circulation in a House

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air pollution can expose homeowners to a variety of health problems. Mold, mildew and off-gassing from carpets, paints and furniture can be the source of minor irritations such as headaches and mild respiratory ailments. More serious health issues may develop from prolonged exposure to a steady or high concentration of pollutants. Maintaining a healthier home involves finding ways to push some of the bad air out and to bring in fresh air.

Things You'll Need

  • Ceiling fans
  • Box fans
  • Exhaust fans
  • Mechanical ventilation system
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the windows as often as weather permits. Many homeowners with central air or window air conditioners rarely open their windows, especially in warmer climates. At the very least, consider running the air conditioner with the vent open to draw in outside air.

    • 2

      Use ceiling and floor fans instead of air conditioning occasionally. Ceiling fans draw warm air up toward the ceiling and move cooler air around the room.

    • 3

      Talk to a heating, ventilation and air conditioning, or HVAC, contractor about installing a mechanical ventilation system. These whole-house systems make use of fans and ducts to bring in outside air. Energy savings can offset the cost of installation eventually.

    • 4

      Use exhaust fans. Some kitchens and bathrooms without windows have exhaust systems installed. If they are not set up to turn on automatically, turn them on occasionally to push indoor air pollutants outside of your home.